Victoria Finan

Kind-hearted Yorkshire Evening Post readers have already donated hundreds of pounds to help Leeds continue its recovery from the devastating Boxing Day floods.

And today we are calling on even more readers to dig deep to support those whose livelihoods were washed away in the deluge.

Community spirit across the city shone through last week as volunteers joined forces to help with the clean-up.

But Leeds Community Foundation, which has launched the YEP-backed fundraising appeal, is calling for financial support to help those struggling with the aftermath of the floods.

Sally Anne Greenfield, chief executive of Leeds Community Foundation, said: “Moments like this highlight the great community spirit we have in Leeds – with volunteers from all over the UK assisting with the clean-up and helping people to get back on their feet.

“With people having to leave their homes, community groups premises being badly damaged and businesses having their stock ruined we have launched an emergency Leeds Flood Relief Appeal to provide financial support to assist with the aftermath of the floods. Therefore, we are calling on YEP readers to give what donations they can to help charitable projects and vulnerable families who have been affected by floods.”

One social enterprise hit by the floods was Kirkstall-based Seagulls. Seagulls uses leftover and donated space to run a creative art space for people suffering from mental health problems, but much of its supplies were destroyed in the floods. Project manager Catherine Hyde said: “The floods were heartbreaking, and we are only beginning to count our losses.

“But it’s been heartwarming how many people have already helped.

“Our art studio is an important space, and the help is getting us back on our feet.”